The “sluggish” approach some hauliers are taking to preparing for Brexit is shocking, according to Morrison Freight MD Lee Steward.

MD Lee Steward said the Ipswich-based firm, which operates a fleet of 40 trucks and 60 trailers, has won three new clients on the back of its preparations for Brexit.

The international freight transportation and warehousing company has introduced a range of measures aimed at combating the possible impact of Brexit.

These include gaining Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, which will speed up and simplify customs procedures. The accreditation took the firm almost a year and involved a “heavy financial investment”, according to Steward.

Steward said: “We are delighted that all the hard work and compliances which need to be fulfilled to achieve this status has been rewarded.

“We all know there is a lot of uncertainty about how the Brexit negotiations will end. But instead of waiting for news, we wanted to act as promptly as possible in starting the AEO process.

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“It involved a heavy financial investment, but we felt it was important and necessary and obtaining AEO status will certainly be a benefit to ourselves and our clients.”

Other measures taken by the company include greater staff training and working more closely with its clearing agent, Channelports, to look at every eventuality.

Lee added: “I have been shocked by what seems to be a sluggish approach from some companies within the industry when it comes to planning for Brexit.

“No one has a crystal ball, but I believe you can still be pro-active so customers feel a little more at ease.

“We are also delighted that we have secured three new clients on the back of the measures we have put in place and proactively investing time and money ahead of Brexit.”

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